Centacare Launches Respite Foster Care Campaign via SAUCE.
A little time. A lasting difference.
Centacare has launched a new recruitment campaign for Foster and Kinship Carer Week 2026, calling on more South Australians to consider respite foster care.
Created by SAUCE. The Creative Agency, the campaign challenges the misconception that becoming a foster carer requires a full-time commitment, showing how even a small amount of time can leave a lasting impact.
Respite carers play an important role in supporting children and young people in care, while giving foster families the practical support they need to continue their caring role with confidence and resilience.
“For children and young people, respite carers offer opportunities to further build trusted relationships, develop new experiences and expand their network of safe and nurturing adults. Many people don't realise that even a small commitment of time can have a lasting impact, helping children build positive relationships for children.”
said Alicia Remedios, Assessment Manager at Centacare.
With almost 5,000 children and young people in foster care across South Australia, the need for more respite carers is paramount. 70.2% of carers who requested respite were told it was unavailable, while around three-quarters feel they don’t receive enough respite.
“You don’t need to be a full-time foster carer to make an impact. It could be an hour on a weekend, a school holiday outing or simply being there when you can. Whatever time you can give, you can make a full-time difference, part time.”
said Tom Ootes, Managing Director at SAUCE.
The campaign brings this idea to life through a warm, emotionally driven film focusing on the small reminders that stay with both carer and child long after they go home.
“From messy painted nails to a hand-drawn piece of artwork on the fridge, these might seem like small moments, but they can become lasting reminders of the positive impact respite care has on a child’s life.”
said Dave Ormston, Creative Director at SAUCE.
To help children and young people build positive, consistent relationships, Centacare matches respite carers based on each child's individual needs and circumstances. Carers are supported every step of the way through training, professional guidance, development opportunities and a 24/7 on-call service, ensuring children receive the care and support they need to thrive.
The Centacare Respite Care campaign rolls out across South Australia through social and digital.
CREDITS
Client – Centacare
Marketing and Communications Officer – Danielle Lentini
Assessment Manager – Alicia Remedios
Recruitment Officer – Claire Davies
Digital Media Designer – Bek Gratton
Agency – SAUCE. The Creative Agency.
Managing Director and Principal – Tom Ootes
Creative Director – Michael Gagliardi
Creative Director – David Ormston
Art Director – Ella-Maude Wilson
Account Manager – Hayley Riessen
Production
Director/DOP – Jarrod Knoblauch
1AC – James Wire
Gaffer – Nic Datson
H&MU – Mandy Khalil
Editor/Colourist – Jarrod Knoblauch
Sound Design – Scott Illingworth (Seeing Sounds)
